The 237 country code is the international dialing prefix for the Republic of Cameroon, a nation located in Central Africa. If you see this code on your caller ID, it means the call is originating from a phone number registered in that country.
This comprehensive guide will explain exactly where Cameroon is, how to properly use the 237 country code to make a call, and provide an essential warning about a prevalent phone scam you need to be aware of.
Where is Country Code 237?
The +237 country code is assigned exclusively to Cameroon. This Central African nation is situated on the Gulf of Guinea and shares borders with Nigeria, Chad, the Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of the Congo.
- Capital City: Yaoundé
- Largest City & Main Seaport: Douala
Understanding its location is key to recognizing that a call from a +237 number is a long-distance international call, not a domestic one from within North America.
How to Call a Number with the 237 Country Code
If you need to make a legitimate phone call to Cameroon from the United States or Canada, you must use the standard international dialing format.
Follow these simple steps:
- Dial the International Exit Code: Start by dialing 011. This code signals to your carrier that you are placing a call outside of the North American Numbering Plan.
- Dial the Cameroon Country Code: Next, enter 237.
- Dial the Local Cameroonian Number: Finally, dial the 8-digit local phone number.
The complete dialing sequence will look like this: 011 + 237 + [8-Digit Local Number]
Important Safety Alert: The “One-Ring” Scam and +237
The 237 country code is frequently exploited by scammers in a scheme known as the “one-ring” or “Wangiri” scam. This fraudulent tactic is designed to bait you into calling an expensive premium-rate number.
Here is how the scam typically works:
- A scammer uses an auto-dialer to call your phone from a +237 number.
- The phone rings once, then they hang up before you can answer.
- Curious about the missed call, you decide to call the number back.
- The number is a premium-rate line that charges extremely high per-minute fees. The longer you stay on the line, the more money the scammer makes from your call.
The best way to protect yourself is to never call back an unknown or unexpected number with a +237 prefix. If the call is from someone who genuinely needs to reach you, they will leave a message or try to contact you through other means.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 237 a US area code?
No, the number 237 is not used as a domestic area code in the United States or Canada. It is strictly the international country code for Cameroon.
What is the time zone for the 237 country code?
The time zone in Cameroon is West Africa Time (WAT), which is UTC+1. Cameroon does not observe daylight saving time.
Are calls to Cameroon expensive?
Yes. Calls made from North America to the 237 country code are considered international long-distance calls and are typically billed at a much higher rate than domestic calls. Always check with your phone service provider for their specific rates to avoid bill shock.
What does a complete phone number in Cameroon look like?
A complete phone number in Cameroon consists of the +237 country code followed by an 8-digit local number. Mobile numbers in the country often begin with the digit ‘6’.
Conclusion
In summary, the 237 country code is the international identifier for Cameroon. To call this country, you must use the 011 exit code before dialing 237 and the local number. Above all, be vigilant and cautious of missed calls from +237 numbers, as they are often part of a “one-ring” scam. When in doubt, it is always safest not to call back.
